Basic Ingredients for Soft White Bread
- 3 ¼ cups (410g) all-purpose flour or bread flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon oil or melted butter (for brushing)
Optional Additions for Flavor or Texture
- 1 tablespoon honey (for a slightly sweet loaf)
- 2 tablespoons milk powder (for extra softness)
- 1 egg (for a richer crumb, optional)
Step-by-Step: How to Make Easy White Bread
1. Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to make the dough rise beautifully.
2. Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the softened butter, yeast mixture, and (if using) egg or honey. Mix until the dough begins to come together. If it feels too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time; if too dry, add a little more warm milk.
3. Knead Until Smooth
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. Proper kneading helps develop the gluten, which gives your bread that irresistible soft and chewy texture.
4. First Rise
Lightly oil a clean bowl, place the dough inside, and cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 to 1½ hours, or until it doubles in size.
5. Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air. Roll it out into a rectangle and then tightly roll it into a log shape. Pinch the seam to seal and place the dough seam-side down into a greased loaf pan.
6. Second Rise
Cover the pan again and let the dough rise for another 30–45 minutes, or until it has risen just above the rim of the loaf pan.
7. Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Brush and Cool
Remove the loaf from the oven and brush the top with melted butter for a glossy, soft crust. Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing — though the aroma will tempt you otherwise!
Tips for the Perfect Bakery-Style Bread
Use Bread Flour for Extra Elasticity
Bread flour contains more protein than all-purpose flour, giving your loaf that chewy, structured texture similar to bakery bread.
Control the Temperature
Warm, not hot, milk helps activate the yeast. Too much heat can kill the yeast, while cold milk slows fermentation.
Don’t Rush the Rising Time
Allowing the dough to rise fully is key to achieving that light, airy crumb. Patience makes all the difference here.
Add Steam for a Crisper Crust
For a professional bakery finish, place a small dish of hot water on the bottom rack of your oven while baking. The steam helps create a slightly crisp crust while keeping the inside moist.
Serving Ideas
- Classic Toast: Spread with butter, jam, or honey for breakfast bliss.
- Sandwich Bread: Perfect for soft, sturdy sandwiches or grilled cheese.
- French Toast Base: Day-old slices make divine French toast or bread pudding.
How to Store Homemade White Bread
Wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight bread box at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in airtight bags — it will stay fresh for up to a month. Just toast or reheat when ready to enjoy.
Troubleshooting Common Bread Baking Issues
Bread Didn’t Rise
Your yeast may have been inactive or the milk too hot. Always check yeast freshness and water temperature before starting.
Dense Texture
This usually happens when the dough isn’t kneaded enough or didn’t rise long enough. Make sure to give the gluten time to develop properly.
Overly Brown Crust
If your oven runs hot, cover the top loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Final Thoughts
This Easy White Bread Recipe – Soft, Fluffy & Bakery Style is the perfect blend of simplicity and perfection. Each slice is light, tender, and flavorful — everything you could want from homemade bread. Once you bake your first loaf, you’ll never want to buy store-bought bread again.
Serve it warm, share it fresh, and savor the comforting joy that only homemade bread can bring. It’s a timeless classic, made effortlessly in your own kitchen.
